
Metal Compass Project marks highest point of Samhan
The project aims to document the highest elevation point in Dhofar Governorate and transform it into a prominent environmental landmark on Oman's tourism and environmental map. Implemented within the Jabal Samhan Nature Reserve, the project provides valuable data about the reserve's characteristics to enhance environmental, tourism and cultural awareness.
A concrete block topped with a metal compass structure marking the four cardinal directions and nearby environmental/tourism landmarks has been installed at "Moden" summit to highlight the reserve's cultural and natural identity. Standing at 1,757.6 metres above sea level, Moden summit represents one of Oman's most distinctive natural locations and the country's second-highest mountain peak.
Zahran bin Ahmed Al Abdulsalam, Director-General of Environment in Dhofar Governorate, stated: "This project establishes Jabal Samhan summit as a promising environmental, tourism and cultural landmark offering unique experiences for both visitors and local communities." The project enhances the reserve's status as a premier ecotourism destination while preserving its rich natural resources and authentic cultural values. Al Abdulsalam added that it invites enthusiasts to explore the reserve's natural, geological and biological aspects, which will expand fundamental knowledge for deeper understanding of its unique ecosystem and guide conservation efforts.
Notably, the Jabal Samhan Compass Project incorporates scientific, environmental, tourism and cultural dimensions. It provides crucial data about various aspects of the reserve's ecosystem, encourages preservation of natural resources and boosts the tourism appeal of Jabal Samhan and its nature reserve.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Observer
2 days ago
- Observer
EA advises caution for trekkers heading to Jabal Samhan
MUSCAT, Aug 10 Jabal Samhan, one of Oman's most significant nature reserves, is increasingly attracting trekking enthusiasts. However, the Environment Authority (EA) in Dhofar Governorate has launched a safety campaign to alert visitors about the extreme temperatures and challenging conditions of the Jabal Samhan trail, which lies outside the Khareef season area. With trail signs still under construction and the terrain marked by rough, blocked multi-directional paths, the EA stresses the importance of having an experienced local guide and making thorough preparations before embarking on the trek. Ahmed bin Said al Mashikhi, Supervisor of the team responsible for the metal compass installation at the summit of Jabal Samhan, explained, 'When driving to the metal compass, trekkers can view landmarks such as Tawi Atair city, Taiq Cave, and the expansive Jabal Samhan range. From the starting point in the Qayrut area, trekkers must obtain a permit from the Jabal Samhan Reserve Administration and come fully prepared with supplies and water.' The trek to the metal compass spans approximately 14 kilometres through a biologically diverse trail where trekkers may encounter Nubian ibex, rock hyrax, and native frankincense and wild pistachio trees. The metal compass at the summit features a directional map highlighting key landmarks including the Salut area, the frankincense caravan passage (Kharsh Afidhuq), Wadi Ain, and views of the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean. Al Mashikhi noted the increasing number of visitors from Dhofar and across Oman, remarking that while the trail offers breathtaking views, it remains one of the most challenging treks in the region. In collaboration with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, the EA is working to improve the trail by installing clear signage and directions to ease access for visitors. The EA urges all hiking groups to strictly follow guidelines and regulations, including reserving an entry permit before arrival. It recommends consulting experienced locals or guides, ensuring physical fitness for the demanding climb and carrying sufficient water supplies, as natural water sources are unreliable. Due to unmarked paths, trekkers are advised to use navigation tools such as compasses, GPS devices and maps, and to inform a trusted person of their planned route and expected return time to enhance safety.


Observer
6 days ago
- Observer
EA issues warning to visitors of Jabal Samhan
Salalah: The Environment Authority in Dhofar Governorate has issued an important alert to visitors of the Jabal Samhan Nature Reserve, urging caution when choosing to explore the mountainous route known as the Mineral Compass. This advisory comes in light of rising temperatures and incomplete trail markings that may pose risks to hikers during the off-season. According to the Authority, the current weather conditions in the area, particularly outside of the Khareef season, are characterized by extremely high temperatures. Additionally, trail signage along the route remains under development, meaning paths may be difficult to navigate, branching in multiple directions and often crossing rugged, unmarked terrain. This presents a potential danger to hikers unfamiliar with the landscape. The Environment Authority stresses the importance of adequate preparation and compliance with safety guidelines before embarking on any mountain trek in the reserve. Key recommendations include securing an official entry permit from the Directorate General of Environment in Dhofar, being accompanied by a professional and knowledgeable guide, and ensuring that one's physical fitness is sufficient for a challenging mountain ascent. Visitors are also encouraged to carry enough water due to the scarcity of natural sources in the area, and to use reliable navigation tools such as GPS devices or detailed maps. Planning the route in advance and informing a trusted contact of the expected return time are also critical safety measures. The Authority strongly advises all adventure sports groups, particularly hikers, to comply with the environmental instructions and legal requirements in place to protect both visitors and the fragile ecosystem of this vital natural reserve.


Observer
6 days ago
- Observer
226 vehicles removed to protect plains of Dhofar
SALALAH: As part of a joint operation between the Environment Authority (EA), the Royal Oman Police (ROP), and Dhofar Municipality, the 'Environment Protection' campaign continued its field activities during the 2025 Khareef season in Dhofar to safeguard the governorate's unique green cover and protect its fragile ecosystem amid a surge in seasonal tourism. According to the campaign's latest field report, a total of 226 vehicles were removed from green plains across various locations in Dhofar between 25 and 31 July 2025, due to environmental violations involving off-road driving in restricted areas. Additionally, four dirt roads were closed after they were found to cause environmental damage and pose safety risks to visitors. The teams also dealt with three vehicles that had slipped and become stuck in waterlogged terrain. The campaign is part of a broader initiative launched earlier by the Environment Authority under the banner of 'Environment Protection.' The campaign has been reinforced this season with the deployment of four additional monitoring teams supporting operations in Salalah, Taqah, and Mirbat, in addition to the existing enforcement units in other wilayats. Officials from the Environment Authority stressed that the institutional cooperation among the three entities has significantly enhanced field readiness and rapid response to environmental violations. The campaign seeks to strike a balance between sustainable tourism and ecological preservation, in line with Oman's national vision for a greener, more sustainable future. EA urged all visitors and residents to cooperate with the field teams and adhere to environmental laws and guidelines, emphasising that 'a sustainable environment is a shared responsibility.'